Online job ads increased last month, up by 1.3% or 3,000 in seasonally adjusted terms.
This second consecutive monthly increase diverges from the consistent pattern of declines recorded over the last 12 months. And despite these recent decreases, monthly online job ads continue to be about 35% higher than in 2019.
Online job ads were up in most states and territories, major occupation and skill level groups over the month. The Northern Territory recorded the strongest increase, followed by the Australian Capital Territory. Among major occupation and skill level groups, Technicians and Trades Workers and Skill Level 5 occupations recorded the strongest increases.
Online job ads decreased at a similar rate across capital cities, down by 17.2%, and regional Australia, down by 17.3% over the year.
Labour demand for Veterinarians and the complex challenges exacerbated by occupational shortages
Veterinarians play an important role in key industries and caring for highly valued companion animals. Growing numbers of Australian households are enjoying pet ownership, estimated at around 70%, and ambitious growth targets prevail in the animal agriculture sector.
Recent increases in online job advertisements for Veterinarians in Internet Vacancy Index results are further indicators of the difficulties confronting this workforce. A combination of labour market conditions and occupation characteristics create a diverse set of challenges. The severity of these challenges is generally acknowledged. For example, the New South Wales government recently provided in principle support for most recommendations from an inquiry into the veterinary workforce. Also, participants of a roundtable convened by Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer recognised ‘maintaining business as usual is not an option’.
Despite strong growth in employment and qualification attainment, occupational shortages exacerbate complex workforce challenges. Recent media attention and research shed light on issues of burnout and more serious mental health issues concentrated in this workforce. Some of these challenges are amplified in regional Australia. Particularly around work patterns and workloads, with related risks connected to large animal care specialisation and biosecurity risks in animal production systems.
Collaborative efforts across government, industry and individuals will have the best prospects to design and prioritise responses to navigate towards optimised worker wellbeing and satisfaction, animal welfare and provision of care, alongside industry growth and biosecurity.
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For direct queries email us at JSA-Nowcasting@jobsandskills.gov.au
